THE MP for South Swindon's efforts to tackle loneliness among the vulnerable has made progress in his campaign.

Robert Buckland wrote to Baroness Barran on behalf of the HF Trust to ask what is being done to help people with learning disabilities or without internet access to connect with others online.

He said: "Throughout the Covid pandemic, the ability to connect online has been a lifeline for many people, supporting them to maintain important connections with friends, family and colleagues. But many people, including those with learning disabilities, face barriers to digital connectivity as a result of the lack of access to mobile technology and the internet, as well as a lack of skills and confidence."

Barroness Barran replied: "Thank you for your correspondence on behalf of the HF Trust regarding the role of the digital divide in loneliness among people who have learning disabilities.

"This year, Loneliness Awareness Week was an important moment to remember that, even as restrictions ease, many people will continue to feel lonely. Now more than ever, it is vital that individuals and organisations from across society continue to take action to tackle loneliness.

"During lockdown, the ability to connect online was a lifeline for many people, supporting them to maintain essential connections with friends, family and colleagues. However, I know that many people, including those with learning disabilities, face barriers to digital connectivity as a result of the lack of access to mobile technology and the internet, as well as a lack of skills and confidence.

"This is an issue government is dedicated to addressing through numerous initiatives. We are seeing the positive impact that access to the internet can have through our £2.5 million digital lifeline fund.

"This is providing tablets, data and free digital support to over 5,500 people with learning disabilities - enabling them to connect with friends, family, services and support groups, as well as to pursue hobbies and interests.

"As the lead department for digital, the department also works closely with the rest of government to ensure that all departments consider digital issues, including the digital divide, when making policy.

"We are also working with the Inclusive Economy Partnership’s Digital Inclusion Impact Group, made up of industry and civil society leaders, to galvanise industry action to address digital exclusion.

"In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, we provided funding to national organisations to help them to adapt and scale up their work to tackle loneliness. This included providing funding to Sense, Mind, the Carers’ Trust and the British Red Cross to support their work with people with disabilities and their carers, and those who are digitally excluded.

"The government’s tackling loneliness strategy recognises that anyone can feel lonely, at any time. We also know that some groups, including those with a learning disability, are at a higher risk of feeling chronically lonely.

"We will continue to work with the Cabinet Office Disability Unit, the Department for Health and Social Care, and organisations working to support people with all kinds of disabilities to inform our work in this space."